PRINCE AKATOKI, MARBLE ARCH
The Prince Akatoki has a signature scent. It’s distinctly Japanese, a profusion of ho wood, cabreuva and frankincense, with notes of petitgrain and bergamot. It lingers throughout the hotel, fragrancing its soft tones and minimalist decor and bringing both its culture and hospitality to life. Formerly The Arch London, the newly renovated Prince Akatoki spans several Georgian houses behind Marble Arch. There are 82 bedrooms and suites, a gym, bar, restaurant and meeting room. Akatoki is an ancient Japanese word for sunrise, and the desire is for guests to feel re-energised upon waking. Our Studio Suite is in the basement but has large windows leading on to a private patio. The decor is beautiful and calming, with contrasting light and dark wood. Folding doors off the hall lead to a bijou kitchen and the main bedroom has a king-sized bed, sofa and a Japanese slatted cabinet – home to a Nespresso machine, minibar with snacks and a traditional tea set. The white and black marbled bathroom is stunning, with a Japanese Toto toilet, rain shower, TV and traditional yukata robes.
Once settled and freshened up, we head to the hotel restaurant TOKII. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and also offers sushi masterclasses at the weekend. From the extensive menu, we try Wagyu beef and vegetables served on a hot stone, and caramelised black cod – both of which are delicious – and I devour the gooey dark chocolate fondant with matcha ice cream.
Before turning in, we head to The Malt Lounge & Bar, which specialises in whiskies and cocktails with a Japanese twist. We sip our drinks while warming ourselves by the fireplace and soaking up the Zen, yet insanely chic, atmosphere.
The next morning, we indulge in a traditional, refreshing Japanese breakfast of tamago omelette and grilled salmon, with rice, miso soup, steamed vegetables, egg tofu and a matcha tea, all served on a large tray. There is also an English breakfast and a complimentary TOKII buffet with pastries, fruits, cheeses and yogurts.
We leave feeling relaxed and refreshed – just one night at Prince Akatoki is enough to feel replenished by this hotel’s sanctuary vibes and to restore your Zen. NATALIE DOURADO
ROOMS FROM £400 A NIGHT WITH BREAKFAST. THEPRINCEAKATOKILONDON.COM